Some of the most consistent events to attend in Phoenix are concerts. Every week, there will undeniably be great local bands or famous performers headlining around town.

There are multiple music festivals that occur every year, such as Viva Phoenix in March, Pot of Gold in April and Summer Ends in September. In 2015, Viva Phoenix was held downtown and consisted of ninety performers at different stages, including Smallpools, Halsey and Twin Shadow. Pot of Gold included artists like Fall Out Boy, Kendrick Lamar, Milky Chance and Rebelution. The Summer Ends music festival hosted even more artists like Kanye West, Big Sean, Jimmy Eat World and the lead singer of The Killers. Each of these events attract thousands of people and last for many days.

The smaller, more local venues allow attendees to get up close and personal with the performers. For example, the Crescent Ballroom is built so that no matter where one stands, he or she will have a great view. The artists that perform there often meet the fans just by walking off stage and interacting with the crowd. Another great venue is the newly-renamed the Rebel Lounge, which typically hosts artists that originated in Arizona, such as The Technicolors and Dylan Gardner.

“I really like the Crescent Ballroom because it draws a wide variety of bands. It’s such a small venue and you get to really enjoy the music. Being small is also great because the tickets are usually really cheap. I’ve been able to see some of my favorite local and popular bands there,” said senior Ellie Fessler, avid concert attendee.  

Larger venues host big names that come to the Phoenix area, including Taylor Swift at Gila River Arena in August and Zedd at Comerica Theatre in September. Senior Angela Vanderwey said, “The Taylor Swift concert was one of the most magical moments of my life. It was absolutely incredible to see her in person for the first time.”

Upcoming concerts include The 1975 and Janet Jackson, and new tours will soon be announced for 2016.